French Polynesia

French Polynesia is one of a handful of Pacific Islands that allow tourists to swim with humpback whales. However, the activity's popularity has raised concerns over potential harm to the animal. HPRʻs Derrick Malama reports in the Pacific News Minute.

Hawai‘i will host the world’s largest celebration of Indigenous Pacific Islanders for the first time in June. It's only three weeks away and officials are still looking for a handful of volunteers.

The state will host FestPAC for the first time after the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the event in 2020. HPR's Cassie Ordonio hears from Pacific Islanders looking forward to attending.

In June, Hawaiʻi will host the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture, drawing more than 2,200 delegates from at least 28 Pacific countries and U.S. territories. Hawaiʻi organizers say they're in the final stretch of planning the celebration, which usually attracts more than 100,000 visitors and locals. HPR's Cassie Ordonio has more.

Surfing's world governing body says it opposes the construction of a controversial new judges' tower for the 2024 Olympics event in Tahiti. Local residents and environmentalists fear it could permanently damage the coral reef. HPR’s Derrick Malama has more in the Pacific News Minute.

French Polynesia is hosting part of the 2024 Olympic Games: the surfing competition. But that part of the planning is now at the center of an environmental controversy. HPR’s Derrick Malama has more in the Pacific News Minute.

An unusual preservation project is continuing this fall in French Polynesia. Scientists are hoping to save a rare bird from extinction. HPR’s Derrick Malama has more in the Pacific News Minute.

The Polynesian Voyaging Society and the government of French Polynesia have signed a joint declaration calling for sustainable management and protection of the oceans.

Last week, Governor David Ige announced the approval of travelers from French Polynesia to Hawaiʻi.

France’s highest court has rejected an appeal filed by the former President of French Polynesia and 12 others in the so-called phantom jobs scandal. The…